I just love this episode of The Office! In case you are unfamiliar, the boss, Michael Scott, discovers that one of his employees has contracted rabies. Being a man of action, he sets up his own Fun Run for Rabies Awareness (despite the fact that there is already a known cure for the disease). Now, while the entire plot makes for a very entertaining half hour, that is not the reason I am sharing this short clip. This week, I want to draw your attention to a fun way to help a charitable cause, while helping yourself in the process!

Good news! Spring is around the corner and the weather is getting nicer (unless you live in Western Washington, in which case at least the rain is no longer freezing). Now is the perfect time to start a new exercise program, and what better way to inspire/keep yourself motivated than to sign up and train for a local race? Want even better news? No matter what your fitness level, goal, or interest there is most likely a race for you that coincidentally helps a worthy cause. So this week’s challenge is to find a race/cause that interests you, sign up and start training! Here are a few resources to help you get started:

Active Website – List of thousands of races, sports, activities, training resources and much more!
Team In Training Website – Sign up to train with a group in your area while raising funds to benefit the Luekemia and Lymphoma Society
TriFind Website – For those who want to do more than just run!
Susan G. Komen 3-Day for a Cure – 3 Days, 60 Miles to benefit the Susan G. Komen Society
American Cancer Society Relay for Life – Not so much a race, but rather 24 hours of courage, strength, fun, and memorial.

There are so many more events that I could list, but I think the websites above are enough to get you started. If you are still uncertain,  talk to someone who has  participated in past races and ask which ones they most enjoy! Also, if you have any questions, feel free to ask them here!

Take it Further

If you wish to take your racing a step further, don’t just sign up and meet the minimum contribution with your registration fee, but actively fund raise for the race’s cause! Please note that some races take more commitment than others—for instance, the Susan G. Komen 3-Day requires a fundraising goal of $2300 and extensive training, but don’t let that deter you as the organizers provide excellent resources to help you meet that goal. I recommend researching all the facts on any race before signing up, then determine which race is right for you based on your own personal goals and availability to train/fund raise.  

Now, if health, medical, or other issues keep you from actively participating in a race, perhaps you can help a participant fund raise. Another option is to help volunteer at a race in support of those who are participating.

And finally, just as an FYI, so far in 2013, I’ve signed up to participate in the Spokane, WA, Bloomsday Race as well as the Seattle Rock’n’Roll Half Marathon. Let me know if any of you out there wish to join me! I would love to see you there! I’m sure I will be participating in a few additional races in the coming months, but so far those remain TBD.

Have a great week all!